Agnirva Space Premier League - Expedition #32231: Biofilms in Orbit: Investigating Microbial Behavior in Microgravity

Biofilms—those sticky clusters of microorganisms—may seem mundane, but they pose serious challenges in space. Dr. Luis Zea and the BioServe Space Technologies team are diving deep into how biofilms form and behave in microgravity during expeditions 61/62, 66, and 67.

Biofilms can form on spacecraft surfaces, potentially clogging systems, degrading materials, or posing health risks to astronauts. This experiment investigates how these microbial communities grow on different materials and under varied environmental conditions aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

The study focuses on both physical characteristics and genetic expression. By comparing how bacteria behave in microgravity versus Earth gravity, researchers hope to uncover new strategies for controlling biofilm formation in space habitats.

Understanding these mechanisms is vital for maintaining spacecraft integrity, especially for long-duration missions to the Moon or Mars. It also offers insights into antibiotic resistance and microbial resilience—knowledge that could be crucial for both space and Earth-based healthcare.

This research lays the groundwork for cleaner, safer, and more habitable space environments by tackling the tiny but mighty organisms that live within them.

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